Roger Williams University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary bachelor’s programme blends core life sciences with profession‑focused clinical skills and applied learning. Early coursework establishes a solid scientific foundation including human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pathophysiology and medical terminology. Core allied health subjects typically include:

• Patient assessment and clinical skills — vital signs, health history taking, physical examination techniques and infection control.
• Diagnostic and laboratory concepts — introduction to clinical laboratory methods, basic hematology and specimen handling.
• Imaging and diagnostic modalities — principles of radiography, sonography and other common diagnostic technologies at an introductory level.
• Rehabilitation and therapeutic interventions — fundamentals of physical and occupational therapy approaches, respiratory care basics and modalities used in treatment.
• Pharmacology and therapeutics — drug classifications and safe medication administration relevant to allied health practice.
• Healthcare systems, ethics and law — healthcare delivery models, professional ethics, patient privacy (HIPAA) and regulatory considerations.
• Research methods and evidence‑based practice — statistics, critical appraisal of literature and applied research design for clinical questions.

The programme emphasises applied learning: clinical simulation, laboratory practicums and a supervised field placement or internship with local hospitals, clinics or community health organisations. Students normally complete a capstone project or practicum that demonstrates clinical competence and professional readiness.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic preparation includes college‑preparatory courses in biology and chemistry and a background in mathematics. Admissions criteria commonly include:

• Competitive high school grades with strength in science coursework (biology and chemistry recommended).
• Official transcripts; standardised test submission may be optional depending on institutional policy.
• A personal statement outlining interest in allied health and relevant experience (paid work, volunteering, or shadowing).
• At least one letter of recommendation, preferably from a teacher, guidance counsellor or clinical supervisor.
• Some programmes recommend or require evidence of basic life support/CPR certification prior to clinical placements.

Transfer applicants with prior college coursework in allied health or the sciences are considered and may receive credit for equivalent classes. Specific programme prerequisites and minimum GPA expectations should be checked with the Roger Williams University admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of entry‑level allied health roles, as well as for postgraduate professional training. Common pathways include:

• Clinical technical roles such as radiologic technologist, diagnostic medical sonographer, respiratory therapist or clinical laboratory technologist (additional certification or specialised training may be required).
• Rehabilitation support positions including physical therapy assistant or occupational therapy assistant (programmes or licensure vary by role).
• Entry roles in community health, patient care coordination, case management or health education.
• Continued study in professional programmes such as physician assistant, graduate‑level therapy programmes, nursing or other specialised allied health certifications.
• Opportunities in healthcare administration, medical device industry, clinical research coordination and public health agencies.

Field placements and clinical partnerships established through the university help students gain experience and professional contacts that support job placement and credentialing when required.

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University offers a learner‑centred environment with small class sizes and a strong emphasis on experiential education. The allied health programme leverages on‑campus laboratories, clinical simulation facilities and established clinical affiliations across Rhode Island and the New England region to provide hands‑on training.

Faculty typically include clinicians and practitioners who bring current clinical perspectives to teaching and mentoring. The university’s career services and practicum coordination assist students in securing supervised clinical placements and in preparing for professional certification pathways. Its location near major hospitals and healthcare providers in the Providence and southern New England area gives students access to diverse clinical settings for internships and employment.

Overall, the programme is designed to prepare graduates for immediate entry into allied health roles or for continued professional education in the diagnostic, intervention and treatment professions.